An unforgettable Six Days in Dubai
Overview
Dubai, a glittering oasis in the heart of the desert, has become one of the world’s most exciting travel destinations, offering a perfect blend of modern marvels and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re drawn by its iconic skyscrapers, luxurious resorts, or the call of ancient souks, Dubai has something to enchant every traveler. In this guide, we'll explore the best places to stay, the must-see attractions, and the top spots for culinary delights. Plus, we’ll share a few essential tips to ensure your trip is seamless and unforgettable, whether you're visiting for adventure, relaxation, or a little of both.
A brief history of Dubai
Dubai’s transformation is one of the most remarkable urban success stories of the 20th and 21st centuries. Originally a small fishing village on the Arabian Gulf, Dubai’s history stretches back to the early 19th century when the Al Maktoum family established the emirate as a modest trading port. The discovery of oil in the 1960s marked a pivotal moment, providing the financial resources to fuel the city’s rapid modernization.
However, Dubai’s development is not solely dependent on oil. Under the visionary leadership of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum and later Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the city strategically diversified its economy into trade, tourism, real estate, and finance. Iconic developments like the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island, symbolize Dubai’s ambition to become a global powerhouse. Today, Dubai is a leading international destination known for its cutting-edge architecture, luxury lifestyle, and bustling economy, attracting millions of tourists and businesses from across the globe.
What to experience in Dubai
We didn’t get to all the sites, but we recommend visiting as many as possible. If you manage to see them all, you’ll get a fantastic glimpse of this amazing city.
Burj Khalifa – The world’s tallest building, offering breathtaking views of the city.
Palm Jumeirah – An artificial island shaped like a palm tree, home to luxury resorts. Best seen from The View
Burj Al Arab – A sail-shaped, ultra-luxury hotel considered a symbol of Dubai’s opulence. Book a day at Sal beach club
Dubai Marina – A stunning waterfront with skyscrapers and entertainment venues.
The Dubai Fountain – A captivating water, light, and music show near the Burj Khalifa.
Dubai Mall – One of the largest shopping malls globally, featuring an aquarium and more.
Museum of the Future – A futuristic architectural marvel focused on innovation.
Dubai Frame – A giant picture-frame-shaped structure offering views of old and new Dubai.
Jumeirah Mosque – A stunning example of Islamic architecture, open for tours.
Al Fahidi Historical District – A preserved area reflecting Dubai’s heritage and culture.
The Atlantis, The Palm – A luxurious resort on Palm Jumeirah with an aquarium and water park. We spent two nights here and recommend booking through booking.com for the best rates.
A top tip to visiting a lot of these places is to plan ahead, make bookings & purchase tickets. Dubai is a very popular tourist city, so being as best prepared as possible will mean you will experience what you want to see without any stress.
Where to stay
Dubai offers a wide range of accommodation options, from ultra-luxurious hotels like Burj Al Arab and Atlantis, The Palm or Royal, to more affordable mid-range hotels and budget-friendly options.
Whether you're looking for a five-star experience or something more economical, Dubai has something to fit every budget.
We spent our first 3 nights at the
One&Only Royal Mirage, The Palace.
This was a hotel stay like we have never experienced before. It was pure bliss from start to finish. The moment we arrived we were captivated by the stunning Arabian architecture and lush gardens that instantly made us feel like we had entered a private oasis. Our room was extremely spacious and luxurious, with a balcony offering beautiful views of the iconic Palm Marina. The food was incredible, especially the breakfast, and the private beach felt like our own slice of paradise. What really stood out to us though, was the attentive service - the team went above and beyond to make my stay unforgettable. We left feeling completely relaxed and we will absolutely be returning.
We spent the other 2 nights at the iconic
Atlantis, The Palm
This luxury resort on Dubai’s famous Palm Jumeirah is truly something else. With its stunning rooms, an exhilarating waterpark, and the enchanting Lost Chambers Aquarium, it perfectly combines adventure and opulence. Honestly, it’s not usually our kind of place, but given its iconic status, we felt we had to see it for ourselves - and it turned out to be an unforgettable experience!
Dubai is undoubtedly on the upper end of the spectrum when it comes to travel costs, and while it’s true that not everything here is extravagantly expensive, the overall experience tends to lean toward the luxurious side. From high-end dining and upscale accommodations to exclusive attractions, visitors should be prepared for a higher price tag. However, this isn’t necessarily a drawback; it reflects the city’s commitment to offering world-class experiences, exceptional service, and unparalleled entertainment. Embracing the cost of a trip to Dubai means indulging in a vibrant blend of culture, adventure, and luxury that creates lasting memories, making it well worth the investment.
Travel Tips
Getting around: Make use of the local cabs/taxis. We found them the most cost effective. We did use Uber here and there as well as the Metro to get to the Marina and the Dubai Mall & Burj khalifa. We caught taxis to and from the airport.
Data for mobile: Dont take a SIM card from customs when you arrive. They are only valid for 24hrs and then you have to buy data. Rather go and buy a SIM directly from a provider or alternatively there are services like Know Roaming.
Currency & conversion: Dubai uses AED (United Arab Emirates Dirham). 1AED = 0,27USD or 0.20GBP (as of the date this was written)
•Best time to visit: We visited in September as its quieter season, however still quite hot. Peak season in Dubai is November to April.
Tipping: Tipping at restaurants isn’t required but it is certainly appreciated. We have never experienced hospitality like we did in Dubai, so tipping here and there is so worth it and appreciated.
Dress Appropriately: While Dubai is quite modern and cosmopolitan, it's important to respect local customs. Dress modestly in public areas, especially when visiting religious sites.
Stay Hydrated: Dubai’s climate can be extremely hot, particularly in summer. Always carry water with you and stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities.
Book Attractions in Advance: Popular attractions like the Burj Khalifa and Desert Safaris can sell out quickly, so it’s wise to book your tickets in advance to secure your spot.
Respect Cultural Norms: Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and it's important to ask permission before taking photos of people.
Check Visa Requirements: Depending on your nationality, ensure you understand the visa requirements for entering the UAE. Many countries can obtain a visa on arrival, but it's good to verify.
Our favourite Experiences
Dubai truly has an incredible array of entertainment and experiences to offer, making it a destination like no other. During our visit, we had four standout experiences that we would highly recommend. First, the Lost Chambers Aquarium was a mesmerising journey through underwater tunnels filled with vibrant marine life, captivating both young and old alike. Next, the Desert Safari morning drive with Platinum Heritage was an unforgettable adventure, allowing us to explore the stunning dunes while learning about the rich Bedouin culture. We also enjoyed The View on the Palm, which provided breathtaking panoramic views of the iconic Palm Jumeirah and the sprawling city beyond. Finally, we indulged in the luxurious atmosphere of various beach clubs and pool experiences, where we soaked up the sun and relaxed in style. Each of these activities showcased the unique blend of adventure and luxury that Dubai is famous for, ensuring our trip was both exciting and memorable.
The Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis, The Palm offers a captivating underwater journey through ancient ruins filled with over 65,000 marine animals, including colorful fish, majestic rays, and exotic sharks. With immersive exhibits and interactive experiences, it's a fascinating destination for all ages to explore the wonders of the ocean.
Our desert safari with Platinum Heritage was truly sensational, and it was made even more memorable by our guide, Riyaz. His passion for the desert and its rich history was infectious, and he took the time to share incredible sights that we would have otherwise overlooked. We were fortunate enough to spot the rare Arabian Oryx along with many other beautiful birds, antelope, and even lizards, all of which added to the magic of the experience. Riyaz explained to us some fascinating facts about the ecosystem and Bedouin culture that brought the experience to life, patiently answering our questions and going above and beyond to ensure we fully appreciated the beauty around us.
After a beautiful morning driving through the wondrous Arabian Desert, we got to indulge in the most delicious breakfast at the breathtaking Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort. It was a remarkable experience that deepened our connection to the desert and left us with lasting memories. This was a standout experience and would HIGHLY recommend it.
Our time at The View at The Palm was an unforgettable experience that left us in awe of Dubai's stunning skyline, the innovation and the breathtaking beauty of the Palm Jumeirah. While soaking in the sweeping vistas of turquoise waters and lush landscapes below, we felt a genuine connection to this remarkable city, marveling at the visionary spirit that brought such a spectacular destination to life.
Dubai's beach club scene is a vibrant and luxurious experience that offers something for everyone, and we were thrilled to explore a few of our favorites, though they’re by no means all of them. Cloud22, perched high above the city, offers stunning views and a lively atmosphere that perfectly complements its chic vibe. Then there’s SAL at the Burj Al Arab, where we enjoyed exquisite dining alongside breathtaking beachfront views, truly epitomizing luxury. White Beach at The Atlantis provided a perfect blend of relaxation and fun, with its pristine sands and lively ambiance. Lastly, we were enchanted by the beautiful adults-only pool at the One&Only, where tranquility meets elegance, making it an ideal retreat for couples seeking a serene escape. Each of these beach clubs showcases Dubai’s unique flair for combining sun, style, and sophistication, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
We highly recommend booking well in advance to get into these pools/beaches, particularly in season.
Where to Eat
Dubai's food scene is a vibrant mix of global flavors, offering everything from street food to world-class fine dining. With its blend of traditional Middle Eastern dishes and innovative culinary experiences, there's something to satisfy every taste.
When we booked our two hotels, we opted for the half-board package, which included fantastic breakfasts and dinners at both hotels. But we also wanted to mix things up, so one night we tried Asia Asia, a beautiful spot in the marina with views of the canal. A stand out meal however was at Nobu in Atlantis - honestly, it was unlike anything we’ve ever had before. Now we understand why it's so highly rated. It was definitely a treat-yourself kind of night,
but totally worth it!
During our stay at the One & Only, we tried two of their restaurants: Tagine for Moroccan styled food and Eauzone for Asian fusion, and both were absolutely delicious.
Conclusion
Our six days in Dubai were truly something special—every moment brought new experiences that we’ll hold onto for a long time. From the stunning sights to the amazing food and the overall energy of the city, it was everything we hoped for and more. If you’re thinking about a trip, we can’t recommend it enough. It’s a place that really leaves an impression, and we know for sure this won’t be our last visit!
